Gender Discrimination and Social Development in Enugu State; The emerging frontier in Nigeria.

This study examined the effect of gender discrimination on social development in Enugu State, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, utilizing structured questionnaires administered across six selected Local Government Areas, cutting across the three senatorial zones of the State. The population of the study was 1,894,629, and a sample size of 400 respondents were determined using Yamani’s formula, of which 362 valid responses were analysed. Data were presented using frequencies and percentages, while hypotheses were tested using the Chi-square (χ²) statistical method at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that gender discrimination significantly affects women’s education, and political participation. Specifically, Chi-square results showed significant variations across women’s education (χ² = 124.46, p < 0.05), and political participation (χ² = 153.3, p < 0.05). These findings confirm that cultural norms, and institutional barriers perpetuate gender disparities in Enugu State. In conclusion, the study affirms that addressing gender discrimination is crucial for inclusive and sustainable social development in Enugu State. Effective implementation of gender equality policies will not only empower women but also accelerate social development. The study recommends that there is a need for continuous sensitization on the dangers of gender discrimination, alongside policies that encourage girl-child education and dismantle harmful cultural practices, that discourages female folk from education. The government should adopt and rigorously implement affirmative action measures, such as gender quotas in political offices (elected/appointed), to enhance women’s participation in politics.